A method disclosed for a lottery to transfer legal title in government owned properties to the public. In the method the legal title to at least one qualifying structure is offered up as a prize in the lottery. A qualifying structure being, preferably, a structure that has been inspected for compliance with all building codes and building occupancy rules, laws, and regulations. Entries to the lottery may then be distributed and a winner selected. In the method, the lottery winner receives title to the property and, preferably, at least one of a tax benefit or an insurance benefit related to the structure.